5 Best Security Awareness Training Tools for Non-Technical Employees

Roughly 90% of cybersecurity breaches succeed because of human error. Yet most security awareness training programs are built as if every employee has an IT background. For organizations with non-technical teams - warehouse staff, retail workers, administrative personnel, or manufacturing crews - long modules packed with jargon are a recipe for disengagement.

The good news: a growing number of platforms now deliver security awareness training for non-technical employees through short-form videos, gamified challenges, and managed programs that require almost no admin overhead. We evaluated five platforms with this audience in mind and found that Symbol Security stands out as the top choice for its managed, short-form approach that meets non-technical teams where they are.

Quick Comparison

What to Look for in Security Awareness Training for Non-Technical Teams

Before diving into our picks, here are the key factors we evaluated with non-technical employees specifically in mind:

• Lesson length and format - Can employees complete training in under five minutes without disrupting their workday? Short-form content improves completion rates and retention.
• Simplicity of language - Does the training avoid jargon and use everyday scenarios that warehouse workers, retail staff, or office admins can relate to?
• Engagement method - Gamification, storytelling, or interactive elements that hold attention matter more for employees who did not choose to sit through a cybersecurity course.
• Admin overhead - How much setup and ongoing management does IT or HR need to invest? Managed options are ideal for organizations without dedicated security teams.
• Compliance coverage - Does it satisfy requirements for SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and other regulatory frameworks?
• Reporting and tracking - Can you prove completion rates, measure risk reduction over time, and generate reports for audits?

With those criteria in mind, here are the five best security awareness training platforms for non-technical employees in 2026.

For a more detailed framework, read our guide on how to choose a security awareness training vendor.

1. Symbol Security - Our Top Pick

Symbol Security is a human cyber risk reduction platform trusted by 5,000+ companies and partners. It bundles security awareness training, phishing simulations, dark web monitoring, and threat intelligence into a single platform designed to be simple for both administrators and learners.

Why Symbol Security Is Our Top Recommendation

What sets Symbol apart for non-technical teams is its combination of short-form training content and fully managed program services. Rather than dropping a library of modules on an IT admin and hoping they figure it out, Symbol handles content selection, program scheduling, and reporting so organizations can focus on their core business. For companies where most employees are not tech-savvy, this managed approach removes the biggest barrier to running an effective training program: the overhead of managing it.

Best For

Mid-market companies with predominantly non-technical workforces - manufacturing, retail, logistics, professional services - that need a hands-off security awareness program delivered by cybersecurity professionals.

Key Features

• Managed Program Services - Symbol's team handles content selection, program launches, and ongoing reporting. This is turnkey security awareness for organizations that lack dedicated security staff.
• Short-form video training - Interactive training videos run 3-5 minutes, designed around scientifically proven learning strategies that promote retention without disrupting the workday.
• Phishing simulations - Simulated phishing campaigns that track and teach, helping employees recognize threats through hands-on experience rather than passive learning.
• Dark web monitoring (Cyber Threat Surveillance) - Monitors darknet chatrooms and forums for stolen credentials and extortion threats tied to your organization.
• Domain Threat Alerts - Flags doppelganger domains that could be used in spoof attacks targeting your employees or customers.
• Email Threat Alerts - Notifies when employee credentials appear in breaches, prompting safe credential changes before accounts are compromised.
• Policy PRO - Ensures IT security policies are signed and employees are trained on critical compliance topics.
  
  

Where Symbol Security Excels

• Training content is built for the non-technical learner: short, visual, and free of unnecessary jargon
• Managed services eliminate the admin burden that causes many SAT programs to stall after launch
• The bundled platform covers training, phishing, dark web monitoring, and policy management in one place rather than requiring separate tools
• Partner-first model supports MSPs, MSSPs, and vCISOs with white-label and multi-tenant capabilities
• Smart reporting dashboards make it easy to track which employees are on track and which need follow-up
  
  

Limitations to Consider

• Pricing is not publicly listed on the website; you will need to contact sales for a quote
• The content library is smaller than KnowBe4's, though the managed approach means Symbol curates the right content for you
  
  

Pricing

Contact Symbol Security for current pricing. The platform includes managed program services as part of the offering, which differentiates it from competitors that charge separately for managed add-ons. Visit symbolsecurity.com to schedule a demo.

For a full pricing breakdown across the market, see our security awareness training cost guide.

2. KnowBe4

KnowBe4 is the largest and most established security awareness training platform on the market. With over 1,500 content assets available in 35+ languages, it offers the widest selection of training modules, videos, games, and assessments in the industry. The platform has evolved into a full human risk management suite with AI-driven tools for behavioral risk scoring and real-time coaching.

Best For

Large organizations and enterprises that need multilingual support, deep analytics, and the broadest possible content library to serve diverse teams across multiple regions.

Key Features

• Massive content library - Over 1,500 training assets including modules, videos, interactive games, and assessments updated regularly with real-world threat scenarios.
• AI-driven AIDA agents - Automated AI security agents that enhance and personalize human risk management workflows.
• SecurityCoach - Delivers real-time nudges through Microsoft 365 and Slack when employees exhibit risky behaviors, providing coaching in the moment it matters.
• Behavioral risk scoring - Continuous employee risk evaluations that help identify who needs additional training before an incident occurs.
• Industry benchmarking - Compares your organization's phish-prone percentage and security culture scores against others in your industry.
  
  

Where KnowBe4 Shines

• Unmatched content volume means there is training material for virtually any topic, role, or compliance requirement
• 35+ language support makes it the strongest option for global organizations with multilingual non-technical staff
• Deep reporting with 60+ built-in reports offers granular visibility into training and simulation performance
• Established track record as the market leader in security awareness training
  
  

Limitations to Consider

• The sheer volume of content and configuration options can overwhelm administrators at organizations without dedicated security teams
• Pricing scales quickly at higher tiers, and the Diamond tier at $30.50/user/year adds up for larger organizations
• The platform's depth is best leveraged with an admin who has time to curate and manage campaigns
  
  

Pricing

KnowBe4 offers four tiers billed annually: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond, ranging from approximately $7.50 to $30.50 per user per year. Each tier adds more advanced features, with AI tools and real-time coaching available at the higher levels.

Considering other options? See our full comparison of the top KnowBe4 alternatives for security awareness training.

3. NINJIO

NINJIO takes a fundamentally different approach to security awareness training: it uses Hollywood-quality storytelling to make cybersecurity lessons feel like entertainment. Each monthly episode is built by professional writers, actors, and animators, covering a real-world breach in a 4-5 minute micro-learning format that employees describe as "bingeable." For non-technical teams that struggle to pay attention during traditional training, this storytelling-first model can be a turning point.

Best For

Organizations of any size that want short, story-driven training content that non-technical employees will actually watch and discuss with colleagues.

Key Features

• Hollywood-style micro-learning - Monthly animated episodes (4-5 minutes) based on real, recent cyber breaches, produced by professional entertainment creators.
• Emotional Susceptibility Profile - Identifies each user's psychological triggers that make them vulnerable to social engineering, then tailors training and phishing plans accordingly.
• NINJIO PHISH3D - Attack vector-based phishing simulations with automated difficulty levels that adapt to individual user behavior.
• One-click phish reporting (NINJIO ALERT) - A single-click add-in that lets employees report suspicious emails and provide standardized information to incident responders.
• Personalized security coaching (NINJIO SENSE) - Adaptive coaching that helps users understand what it "feels like" when someone tries to manipulate them through social engineering.
  
  

Where NINJIO Shines

• Content quality rated 4.9/5 on Gartner Peer Insights - among the highest in the industry
• The storytelling approach sparks conversations among coworkers, reinforcing lessons beyond the training itself
• Organizations using continuous, scenario-driven training report a 55% reduction in risky behaviors like phishing click-throughs
• Five-time Gartner Peer Insights Customers' Choice winner and SoftwareReviews Data Quadrant Champion
  
  

Limitations to Consider

• Managed program services are available but offered as a separate add-on rather than built into the core platform
• The emotional susceptibility approach is powerful but requires buy-in from leadership to implement effectively
• Content is primarily video-based, which may not suit every learning preference
  
  

Pricing

NINJIO starts from $1.50 per user per month with a subscription model based on user count and selected features. A free trial is available with no credit card required. Contact NINJIO for a detailed quote based on your organization's size.

Exploring other options? See our roundup of the top alternatives to NINJIO for security awareness training.

4. Wizer

Wizer makes security awareness training accessible to organizations of any size, starting with a genuinely useful free plan. The platform's signature approach is 1-minute video stories that distill cybersecurity concepts into the shortest possible format. Trusted by 20,000+ organizations across 50+ countries, Wizer proves that effective training does not need to be expensive or time-consuming.

Best For

Small teams and budget-conscious organizations that want effective, video-based security awareness training without a significant financial commitment.

Key Features

• 1-minute video stories - The shortest training format on this list, designed to be memorable and completion-friendly for employees with limited time.
• Automated phishing simulations - Sends unique phishing emails to each employee automatically, testing awareness without manual campaign setup.
• Compliance tracking - Built-in support for SOC 2, HIPAA, and GDPR compliance requirements with progress tracking and reporting.
• Security awareness dashboard - Track company-wide awareness metrics with progress sheets and regular email reports.
• Secure code training - Developer-focused modules for organizations that also need to train technical staff alongside non-technical teams.
  
  

Where Wizer Shines

• The free plan delivers real value, not just a teaser, making it the most accessible entry point for organizations new to SAT
• 500,000+ learners rate the training 4.7 out of 5 stars, confirming that brevity does not sacrifice quality
• The 1-minute video format is ideal for deskless workers who cannot step away from their tasks for extended periods
• Simple deployment means even small teams without IT expertise can launch a training program quickly
  
  

Limitations to Consider

• The free plan is limited in phishing simulation depth and customization options
• Less gamification and engagement features compared to Guardey or NINJIO
• Organizations with complex compliance requirements may need the paid Boost plan to access advanced reporting

Pricing

Wizer offers a free plan that includes basic annual training with tracking and reporting. The Boost plan starts at approximately $25 per month and adds phishing simulations, quarterly mini-courses, and expanded compliance features. No minimums required.

5. Guardey

Guardey has earned the nickname "the Duolingo of security awareness" for its gamified approach that turns weekly training into something employees genuinely look forward to. Each challenge takes about three minutes and can be completed on desktop or mobile, making it an excellent fit for deskless and remote workers. The platform uses a storyline where each user runs a fictional organization they need to protect, showing the consequences of poor security decisions in real time.

Best For

Small to medium-sized businesses, especially those with remote, hybrid, or deskless teams that need a mobile-friendly, habit-forming training experience.

Key Features

• Gamified weekly challenges - Three-minute micro-lessons delivered weekly with leaderboards, achievements, and hot streaks to keep participation high.
• Mobile app - Available on iOS and Android, allowing employees to train from anywhere without needing access to a desktop or company email.
• Industry-specific content - Tailored training modules for healthcare, education, municipalities, and industry/logistics sectors.
• Compliance support - Covers ISO 27001, NIS2, HIPAA, SOC 2, and PCI DSS requirements.
• Real-time insights - Dashboards that track participation, identify knowledge gaps, and prove compliance for audits.
  
  

Where Guardey Shines

• The gamification with leaderboards and competitions genuinely engages non-technical employees and drives consistent weekly participation
• Mobile app is a major advantage for blue-collar and deskless workers who do not sit at a computer during their workday
• Transparent pricing with no hidden costs, unlike several competitors that require sales calls for quotes
• Quick setup - accounts can be created and employees invited within minutes
  
  

Limitations to Consider

• Smaller content library compared to KnowBe4 or NINJIO
• Phishing simulation capabilities are less advanced than dedicated platforms
• Primarily EU-based with 15+ languages, but newer in the US market
  
  

Pricing

Guardey offers three transparent plans: Phishing at $1.53 per user per month, Awareness at $2.99 per user per month, and Advanced at $3.33 per user per month. A 14-day free trial is available with no payment information required.

How to Choose the Right Training for Non-Technical Teams

The best platform depends on your specific needs and constraints. Here is a quick guide:

• If you need fully managed, hands-off training: Symbol Security handles content selection, scheduling, and reporting so you can focus on your business
• If your budget is tight: Wizer's free plan delivers real training value, or Guardey starts at just $1.53 per user per month
• If engagement is your biggest challenge: NINJIO's Hollywood storytelling or Guardey's gamified challenges are built to hold attention
• If you need the largest content library: KnowBe4 offers 1,500+ assets in 35+ languages for maximum coverage
• For most non-technical teams: Symbol Security offers the strongest balance of simplicity, managed delivery, and comprehensive cyber risk coverage

For detailed pricing comparisons across all platforms, see how much security awareness training costs in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you train non-technical employees on cybersecurity?

The most effective approach uses short-form content (under five minutes), relatable real-world scenarios, and consistent delivery rather than one-time annual sessions. Platforms designed for non-technical teams avoid jargon, use video-based or gamified formats, and pair training with phishing simulations that test awareness through hands-on experience rather than quizzes.

How long should security awareness training sessions be?

For non-technical employees, shorter is better. Research shows that micro-learning formats (1-5 minutes) improve knowledge retention compared to traditional longer sessions. The most effective programs deliver brief, frequent lessons - weekly or monthly - rather than a single annual training event that employees quickly forget.

Is security awareness training required for compliance?

Yes, in many cases. Regulations including HIPAA, SOC 2, PCI DSS, GDPR, and ISO 27001 either require or strongly recommend regular security awareness training for employees. Many cyber insurance policies also require proof of ongoing training as a condition of coverage.

What topics should security awareness training cover for non-technical staff?

Core topics include recognizing phishing emails, password hygiene and multi-factor authentication, safe web browsing, protecting sensitive information, reporting suspicious activity, and device safety (laptops, phones, USB drives). For non-technical employees, the focus should be on practical recognition skills rather than technical explanations of how attacks work.

What is managed security awareness training?

Managed security awareness training is a service where the vendor handles the full lifecycle of your training program, including content selection, scheduling, employee enrollment, phishing simulations, and reporting. This model is ideal for organizations without a dedicated security team, since it removes the administrative burden that often causes self-managed programs to stall.